Adapter for coupling a dosing system to a water supply line

ABSTRACT

Adapter for coupling a dosing system to a water supply line, comprising a water inlet and a water outlet, which may be coupled to a water supply line, such that water can flow through the adapter and means for fixing a dosing device on or in the adapter, wherein the dosing device comprises a controller, a sensor unit, at least one actuator, connected to a power source and the controller such that a control signal from the controller brings about a movement of the actuator whereupon a product release is carried out or stopped. The means for foxing the dosing device on or in the adapter and the dosing device are designed such that in the coupled state a fluid-tight connection is formed between the adapter and the dosing device which prevents inflow of water into the adapter and an outflow of flowing water from the adapter.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of PCT/EP2009/058961, filed on Jul. 14, 2009, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. §119 to DE 10 2008 033 237.2 filed on Jul. 15, 2008.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The invention relates to an adapter for coupling a dispensing system with a water-conveying line for releasing a plurality of preparations for use in water-conveying appliances, in particular water-conveying domestic appliances such as for example dishwashing machines, washing machines, washer/dryers or automatic surface cleaning systems.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Dishwashing agents are available to consumers in numerous presentations. In addition to traditional liquid manual dishwashing agents, automatic dishwashing agents have in particular become increasingly significant as domestic dishwashing machines have become more common. These automatic dishwashing agents are typically offered for sale to the consumer in solid form, for example as a powder or as tablets, but increasingly also in liquid form. For some considerable time, attention has focused on convenient dispensing of washing and cleaning agents and on simplifying the operations required to carry out a washing or cleaning method.

Furthermore, one of the main objectives of manufacturers of automatic cleaning agents is to improve the cleaning performance of these agents, increasing attention having been paid in recent times to cleaning performance in low temperature cleaning cycles or in cleaning cycles with reduced water consumption. To this end, new ingredients, for example more highly active surfactants, polymers, enzymes or bleaching agents have been added to the cleaning agents. However, since new ingredients are only available to a limited extent and the quantity of the ingredients used per cleaning cycle cannot be increased at will for environmental and economic reasons, there are natural limits to this approach to solving the problem.

In this connection, devices for multiple dispensing of washing and cleaning agents have recently in particular come to the attention of product developers. In terms of these devices, a distinction may be drawn between dispensing chambers integrated into the dishwashing machine or washing machine, on the one hand, and separate devices independent of the dishwashing machine or washing machine, on the other hand. These devices, which contain a multiple of the quantity of cleaning agent required to carry out a cleaning method, automatically or semi-automatically dispense washing or cleaning agent portions into the interior of the cleaning machine over the course of a plurality of successive cleaning processes. For the consumer, manual dispensing for each cleaning or washing cycle is no longer necessary. Examples of such devices are described in European patent application EP 1 759 624 A2 (Reckitt Benckiser) or in German patent application DE 53 5005 062 479 A1 (BSH Bosch and Siemens Hausgerate GmbH).

There is accordingly a requirement for simple coupling of dispensing systems of the above-stated kind with a water-conveying domestic appliance such as a dishwasher and/or washing machine.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The object of the invention is to therefore to enable simple coupling of a dispensing system with a water-conveying domestic appliance.

The invention permits simple coupling of a dispensing system with a water-conveying domestic appliance. This makes it possible to produce a dispensing system both for an autonomous and for a “built-in” version. It is also possible to configure the adapter as a type of charging station for the dispensing system, in which for example the energy source of the dispenser is charged or data are exchanged between the dispenser and the adapter.

The dispensing system according to the invention consists of the basic components of a cartridge filled with preparation and a dispenser couplable with the cartridge, which is in turn formed of further assemblies, such as for example component carrier, actuator, closing element, sensor, energy source and/or control unit.

It is preferred for the dispensing system according to the invention to be mobile. For the purposes of the present application, mobile means that the dispensing system is not nondetachably connected to a water-conveying device, such as for example a dishwashing machine, washing machine, washer/dryer or the like, but may instead be removed for example from a dishwashing machine by the user or be positioned in a dishwashing machine, i.e. may be handled separately.

According to an alternative development of the invention, it is also conceivable for the dispenser to be connected nondetachably for the user to a water-conveying device such as for example a dishwashing machine, washing machine, washer/dryer or the like and for only the cartridge to be mobile.

In order to ensure operation at elevated temperatures, as may for example occur in individual washing cycles of a dishwashing machine, the dispensing system may be formed from materials which are dimensionally stable up to a temperature of 120° C.

Since, depending on the intended purpose, the preparations to be dispensed may have a pH value of between 2 and 12, any components of the dispensing system which come into contact with the preparations should exhibit appropriate acid and/or alkali resistance. In addition, suitable material selection should ensure that these components are as far as possible chemically inert, for example in relation to nonionic surfactants, enzymes and/or scents.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 Autonomous dispenser with two-chamber cartridge in the separated and assembled states

FIG. 2 Autonomous dispenser with two-chamber cartridge arranged in a drawer of a dishwashing machine

FIG. 3 Two-chamber cartridge in the separated state for an autonomous dispenser and an internal dispenser integral to the machine

FIG. 4 Two-chamber cartridge in the assembled state with an internal dispenser integral to the machine

FIG. 5 Two-chamber cartridge in the separated state for an autonomous dispenser and an external dispenser integral to the machine

FIG. 6 Two-chamber cartridge in the assembled state with an external dispenser integral to the machine

FIG. 7 Two-chamber cartridge in the separated and assembled state for an autonomous dispenser integratable into the machine

FIG. 8 Two-chamber cartridge in the assembled state for an autonomous dispenser integrated into the machine

FIG. 9 Cartridge with chamber for releasing volatile substances

FIG. 10 Cartridge with three chambers in front view

FIG. 11 Dispenser and cartridge in exploded view

FIG. 12 Component carrier in front view

FIG. 13 Component carrier in an exploded view

FIG. 14 Component carrier in an exploded view

FIG. 15 Component carrier in plan view

FIG. 16 Component carrier in perspective view onto outlet orifices

FIG. 17 Component carrier in perspective front view

FIG. 18 Component carrier in bottom view

FIG. 19 Dispenser assembled with cartridge in perspective view

FIG. 20 Bracket with hinge in perspective view

FIG. 21 Actuator configured as bistable solenoid

FIG. 22 Adapter for coupling the dispenser with a water-conveying line

FIG. 23 Adapter in cross-sectional view with dispenser

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The invention is illustrated in greater detail below with reference to drawings which represent merely exemplary embodiments. Particularly preferred developments and particularly preferred combinations of features are also further described in detail.

FIG. 1 shows an autonomous dispenser 2 with a two-chamber cartridge 1 in the separated and assembled states.

The dispenser 2 comprises two dispensing chamber inlets 21 a, 21 b for repeatedly detachable accommodation of the corresponding outlet orifices 5 a, 5 b of the chambers 3 a, 3 b of the cartridge 1. Indicator and operating elements 37, which indicate the operating state of the dispenser 2 or have an effect thereon, are located on the front.

The dispensing chamber inlets 21 a, 21 b additionally comprise means which, when the cartridge 1 is placed on the dispenser 2, bring about opening of the outlet orifices 5 a, 5 b of the chambers 3 a, 3 b, such that the interior of the chambers 3 a, 3 b is connected in communicating manner to the dispensing chamber inlets 21 a, 21 b.

The cartridge 1 may consist of one or more chambers 3 a, 3 b. The cartridge 1 may be of single-part construction comprising a plurality of chambers 3 a, 3 b or be of multipart construction, the individual chambers 3 a, 3 b then being assembled to form a cartridge 1, in particular by bonded, interlocking or frictional connection methods.

In particular, fixing may be effected by one or more of the connection types from the group of snap-in connections, press connections, melt connections, adhesive connections, welded connections, brazed connections, screw connections, keyed connections, clamped connections or rebound connections. In particular, fixing may also be provided by a heat-shrinkable sleeve, which is drawn in the heated state over at least portions of the cartridge and firmly envelops the cartridge in the cooled state.

The bottom of the cartridge 1 may be inclined in the manner of a funnel towards the release orifice 5 a, 5 b in order to provide the cartridge 1 with advantageous residual emptying characteristics. Moreover, the internal wall of the cartridge 1 may be constructed by suitable material selection and/or surface finish such that the product adheres only slightly to the internal wall of the cartridge. The residual emptying characteristics of the cartridge 1 may also be further optimized by this measure.

The chambers 3 a, 3 b of the cartridge 1 may be of identical or different capacities. In a configuration with two chambers 3 a, 3 b, the ratio of the chamber volumes is preferably 5:1; in a configuration with three chambers preferably 4:1:1, these configurations in particular being suitable for use in dishwashing machines.

One possible connection method may also consist in plugging the chambers 3 a, 3 b into one of the corresponding dispensing chamber inlets 21 a, 21 b of the dispenser 2 and thereby fixing them relative to one another.

The connection between the chambers 3 a, 3 b may in particular be detachable, so as to allow separate replacement of chambers.

The chambers 3 a, 3 b each contain a preparation 40 a, 40 b. The preparation 40 a, 40 b may be of the same or different composition.

Advantageously, the chambers 3 a, 3 b are made of a transparent material, such that the filling level of the preparations 40 a, 40 b is visible to the user from outside. It may however also be advantageous to make at least one of the chambers from an opaque material, in particular when the preparation located in this chamber contains light-sensitive ingredients.

The outlet orifices 5 a, 5 b are configured such that they form an interlocking and/or frictional, in particular liquid-tight, connection with the corresponding dispensing chamber inlets 21 a, 21 b.

It is particularly advantageous for each of the outlet orifices 5 a, 5 b to be configured such that it fits onto only one of the dispensing chamber inlets 21 a, 21 b, so preventing a chamber from being inadvertently plugged onto an incorrect dispensing chamber inlet.

The cartridge 1 conventionally has a capacity of <5000 ml, in particular <1000 ml, preferably <500 ml, particularly preferably <250 ml, very particularly preferably <50 ml.

In the assembled state, the dispensing unit 2 and the cartridge 1 may be adapted in particular to the geometries of the devices on or in which they are used, so as to ensure the smallest possible loss in useful volume. To use the dispensing unit 2 and the cartridge 1 in dishwashing machines it is particularly advantageous to shape the dispensing unit 2 and the cartridge 1 in imitation of dishes to be cleaned in dishwashing machines. The dispensing unit 2 and the cartridge 1 may, for example, be plate-shaped, approximately assuming the dimensions of a plate. In this way, the dispensing unit may be positioned in space-saving manner in the lower basket.

In order to provide direct visual checking of filling level, it is advantageous to form the cartridge 1 at least in portions of a transparent material.

In order to protect heat-sensitive components of a product present in a cartridge from exposure to heat, it is advantageous to produce the cartridge 1 from a material with low thermal conductivity.

The outlet orifices 5 a, 5 b of the cartridge 1 are preferably arranged in a line or row, so making a slender, plate-shaped configuration of the dispenser possible.

FIG. 2 shows an autonomous dispenser with a two-chamber cartridge 1 in the crockery drawer 11 when the door 39 of a dishwashing machine 38 is open.

FIG. 3 shows a two-chamber cartridge 1 in the separated state for an autonomous dispenser 2 and an internal dispenser integral to the machine. Here the cartridge 1 is designed in such a way that it is couplable both to the autonomous dispenser 2 and to the dispenser integral to the machine (not shown), which is indicated by the arrows shown in FIG. 3.

On the side of the dishwashing machine door 39 directed towards the interior of the dishwashing machine 38, a recess 43 is formed, into which the cartridge 1 may be inserted, such insertion bringing the outlet orifices 5 a, 5 b of the cartridge 1 into connection in communicating manner with the adapter pieces 42 a, 42 b. The adapter pieces 42 a, 42 b are in turn coupled to the dispenser integral to the machine.

To fix the cartridge 1 in the recess 43, retaining elements 44 a, 44 b may be provided on the recess 43, which ensure frictional and/or interlocking fixing of the cartridge in the recess 43. It goes without saying that it is also conceivable for corresponding retaining elements to be provided on the cartridge 1. The retaining elements 44 a, 44 b may preferably be selected from the group of snap-fit connections, latching connections, snap-fit/latching connections, clamped connections or plug-in connections.

When the dishwashing machine 38 is in operation, preparation 40 a, 40 b from the cartridge 1 is introduced by the dispenser integral to the machine through the adapter elements 42 a, 42 b to the corresponding washing cycle.

FIG. 4 shows the cartridge 1 known from FIG. 3 installed in the door 39 of a dishwashing machine 38.

Another embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 5. FIG. 5 shows the cartridge 1 known from FIG. 3 with a chamber 45 arranged on the top of the cartridge 1, which chamber comprises a plurality of orifices 46 in its outer circumferential surface. Preferably, the chamber 45 is filled with an air freshening preparation, which is released through the orifices 46 into the surrounding environment. The air freshening preparation may comprise in particular at least one scent and/or one odor-controlling substance.

Unlike with the arrangement known from FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 of the cartridge 1 in the interior of a dishwashing machine 38, it is also possible to provide a recess 43 with adapter elements 42 a, 42 b for coupling to the cartridge 1 on an external surface of a dishwashing machine 38. This is shown by way of example in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6.

It goes without saying that the cartridge 1 illustrated in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 may also be arranged with a chamber 45 containing an air freshening substance in a correspondingly constructed receptacle in the interior of a dishwashing machine 38.

A further development of the invention is shown in FIG. 7. The dispenser 2 may here be coupled to the cartridge 1, this being indicated accordingly in the drawing by the first, left-hand arrow. Then, cartridge 1 and dispenser 2 are coupled as an assembly via the interface 47, 48 to the dishwasher, as shown by the right-hand arrow. The dispenser 2 comprises an interface 47, via which data and/or energy are transmitted to and/or from the dispenser 2. In the door 39 of the dishwasher 38 a recess 43 is provided for accommodating the dispenser 2. In the recess 43 a second interface 48 is provided, which transmits data and/or energy to and/or from the dispenser 2.

Preferably, data and/or energy are exchanged wirelessly between the first interface 47 on the dispenser 2 and the second interface 48 on the dishwasher 38. It is particularly preferable for energy to be transmitted from the interface 48 of the dishwasher 38 wirelessly via the interface 47 to the dispenser 2. This may, for example, proceed inductively and/or capacitively.

It is furthermore advantageous for the interface for data transmission also to be of wireless configuration. This may be achieved using the methods known in the prior art for wireless data transmission, such as for example by means of radio transmission or IR transmission.

Alternatively, the interfaces 47, 48 may also take the form of integral plug-in connections. Advantageously, the plug-in connections are configured in such a way that they are protected from the ingress of water or moisture.

FIG. 9 shows a cartridge with a further chamber 45 for accommodating a preparation, which is configured in such a way as to effect release of volatile substances from the preparation into the surrounding environment of the chamber 45.

Volatile scents or air freshening substances for example may be situated in the chamber 45 and released through the orifices 46 in the chamber 45 into the surrounding environment.

It will additionally be noted that the orifices 5 a, 5 b are closed by silicone valves which comprise an x-shaped slit.

FIG. 10 shows a further possible embodiment of the cartridge 1 with three chambers 3 a, 3 b, 3 c. The first chamber 3 a and the second chamber 3 b have approximately the same capacity. The third chamber 3 c has a capacity which is for instance 5 times that of chamber 3 a or 3 b. The cartridge bottom 4 comprises a ramp-shaped step in the region of the third chamber 3 c. This asymmetric configuration of the cartridge 1 makes it possible to ensure that the cartridge 1 is couplable to the dispenser 2 in a position intended therefor and insertion in an incorrect position is prevented by a corresponding configuration of the dispenser 2 or the bracket 54.

FIG. 11 is an exploded representation of the essential components of the dispensing system consisting of cartridge 1 and dispenser 2.

As may be inferred from FIG. 11, the cartridge 1 is composed of two cartridge elements 6, 7. The dispenser 2 consists substantially of a component carrier 23 and a bracket 54, in which the component carrier 23 may be inserted.

FIG. 12 shows a side view onto the component carrier 23 of the dispenser 2, which is explained in greater detail below.

The dispensing chamber 20, the actuator 18 and the closing element 19 are arranged on the component carrier 23, as are also the energy source 15, the control unit 16 and the sensor unit 17. The dispensing chamber 20, the predispensing chamber 26, the dispensing chamber inlet 21 and the receptacle 29 are formed in a single part with the component carrier 23.

As may also be inferred from FIG. 12, the energy source 15, the control unit 16 and the sensor unit 17 are combined in an assembly by arranging them on a corresponding board.

As shown in FIG. 23, the predispensing chamber 26 and the actuator 18 are arranged substantially next to one another on the component carrier 23. The predispensing chamber 26 has an L-shaped basic shape with a shoulder in the lower region, into which is set the receptacle 29 for the actuator 18. The outlet chamber 27 is arranged beneath the predispensing chamber 26 and the actuator 18. The predispensing chamber 26 and the outlet chamber 27 together form the dispensing chamber 20.

The predispensing chamber 26 and the outlet chamber 27 are connected together by the orifice 34.

The receptacle 29, the orifice 34 and the dispensing chamber outlet 22 lie in a row perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 23, such that the rod-shaped closing element 19 may be guided through the orifices 22, 29, 34.

As is apparent in particular from FIG. 13, the rear walls of the predispensing chamber 26 and the outlet chamber 27 are formed integrally with the component carrier 23. The front wall may then for example be bonded to the dispensing chamber 20 for example by a covering element or a film/foil (not shown).

The configuration of the dispensing chamber 20 is explained in greater detail with reference to the detailed view of FIG. 13. This figure shows the outlet chamber 27, which has a bottom 62. The bottom 62 is inclined in the manner of a funnel towards the dispensing chamber outlet 22 arranged centrally in the outlet chamber 27. The dispensing chamber outlet 22 is located in a channel 63, which extends at right angles to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 23 in the outlet chamber 27. The funnel-shaped bottom 62 and the channel 63 and the outlet orifice 22 arranged therein ensure dispensing and virtually complete residual emptying of preparation out of the dispensing chamber 20 if the dispenser is in a position other than horizontal. Furthermore, as a result of the correspondingly funnel-shaped bottom the preparation flows more quickly out of the dispensing chamber, in particular in the case of relatively high viscosity preparations, such that the dispensing period, in which preparation is released, may be kept short.

In FIG. 13 only the middle dispensing chamber 20 is provided with a funnel-shaped bottom of the above-described type. It goes without saying that, in contrast to this representation, further or all of the dispensing chambers may be so shaped. This also applies to the predispensing chambers 26 and outlet chambers 27, if these are provided.

The arrangement of the actuator 18, of the closing element 19 and of the seal 36 on the component carrier 23 is explained in greater detail with reference to the exploded representation in FIG. 14. The figure shows a component carrier 23 with three dispensing chambers 20 arranged next to one another. In the dispensing chamber on the far right the actuator 18 c, the closing element 19 c and the seal 36 c are shown in the assembled state on the component carrier 23. In the case of the middle dispensing chamber the seal 36 b and the closing element 19 b are shown in the assembled state in the dispensing chamber, while the actuator 18 b has been detached from the closing element 19 b. Above the left-hand dispensing chamber 20 a the seal 36 a, the closing element 19 a and also the actuator 18 a are shown in an exploded representation.

The dispensing chamber 20, the predispensing chamber 26, the dispensing chamber inlet 21 and the receptacle 29 for the actuator 18 are of integral construction with the component carrier 23. The predispensing chamber 26 is arranged in an L-shape above the dispensing chamber 20, the receptacle for the actuator 18 being arranged on the leg of the predispensing chamber extending parallel to the bottom of the component carrier 23. The dispensing chamber 20 and the predispensing chamber 26 are connected together by the orifice 34. The receptacle 29, the orifice 34 and the dispensing chamber outlet 22 lie on an axis, which extends perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 23.

The seal 36 has a substantially hollow-cylindrical configuration, with a top closed by a plate-like end piece. The resilient seal 36 may be arranged in the dispensing chamber 20 in such a way that the plate-like end piece presses on the inside against the dispensing chamber outlet 22 and with the side of the seal 36 remote from the plate-like end piece against the orifice 34. The first end of the cylindrical closing element 19 is constructed in such a way that it engages in the hollow-cylindrical seal 36 and may be fixed there by interlocking, friction and/or bonding. The closing element 19 is dimensioned such that it may be passed through the orifice 34 and the orifice of the receptacle 29, but abuts against the dispensing chamber outlet 22, such that the closing element 19 cannot slip downwards out of the component carrier 23.

The closing element 19 projects with one end out of the receptacle 29. This end is inserted into the actuator 18 constructed as a bistable electromagnet and functions as an armature.

FIG. 15 shows the component carrier 23 known from FIG. 14 in plan view. It is clear that the dispensing chamber inlets 21 a-c and the receptacles 29 a-c for the actuators 18 a-c are arranged in a line corresponding to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 23.

FIG. 16 shows the bottom of the component carrier 23 in perspective view. It is apparent that the dispensing chamber outlets 22 a-c and the receptacle 28 for the sensor unit are of hollow-cylindrical construction, whereby the actual outlet orifice and the seal 36 a-c closing the dispensing chamber outlets 22 a-c are protected from mechanical damage.

The ventilation system of the dispensing unit 2 is explained in greater detail with reference to FIG. 17. If a preparation is output from the dispensing chamber to the surrounding environment via the dispensing chamber outlet 22, the falling liquid level in the chambers of the cartridge 1 brings about a reduced pressure, as a result of which ambient air is sucked into the dispensing chamber inlet 22 and the outlet chamber 27 to equalize pressure. Via the orifice 34 the sucked-in ambient air climbs on upwards towards the cartridge 1 in accordance with the pressure gradient. In the predispensing chamber 26 of L-shaped construction, a chamber wall 31 extends inside the vertical leg, which chamber wall forms a first channel 32 and a second channel 33 in the region of the vertical leg. The chamber wall 31 guides the rising air into the right hand channel 33, such that this channel 33 functions primarily as a venting channel, while the other channel 32 primarily ensures that preparation continues to flow out of the cartridge 1.

The dispensing chamber inlet 21 is arranged on a connecting port 30, which is connected in communicating manner with the predispensing chamber 26. It is apparent that the chamber wall 31 also extends into the connecting port 30 and divides the latter into two separate channels.

FIG. 18 shows the bottom of the component carrier 23 in plan view. The dispensing chamber outlets 22 a-c and the receptacle 28 for the sensor unit 17 are arranged in a line, which corresponds substantially to the longitudinal axis of the component carrier 23.

FIG. 19 shows the dispenser 2 assembled with the cartridge 1 in perspective view. In the assembled state the dispensing system has a height h, a width b and a depth t. The width b and the height h should not exceed 210 mm. The depth t should amount to less than 20 mm. The width/height/depth ratio should amount to approximately 10:10:1. The height h and the width b preferably correspond to the dimensions of a medium-sized dinner plate. Thus, the dispensing system may be positioned simply, in a manner which is intuitive for the user, in the corresponding dish holder of a dishwasher washing basket.

FIG. 20 shows a perspective plan view of the bracket 54. It is apparent that a hook 56 is formed in each case inside on the hinge 55, which hook engages in a corresponding receptacle in the cartridge 1, so fixing the cartridge relative to the dispenser 2. The hooks 56 are situated substantially opposite one another. It is also conceivable for in total just one hook 56 to be arranged on the inside of the bracket 54.

FIG. 21 is a schematic representation of a cross-sectional view through an actuator 18 configured as a bistable solenoid. It shows a first coil 58 and a second coil 59 with a permanent magnet 57 arranged between the coils 58, 59. The closing element 19 is accommodated as a plunger core in the circular coils 58, 59 and the circular permanent magnet 57. A retention force is generated by magnetic return between the magnetic field of the permanent magnet 57 and the magnetizable closing element 19, whereby the closing element 19 may be fixed in a position which is defined in each case by the retention points 60, 61.

The closing element 19 may be moved to the retention points 60 and 61 by pulsed energization of the coils 58, 59, by superimposing on the magnetic field of the permanent magnet 57 an electrically generated magnetic field in each case of one of the coils 58, 59 with appropriate polarization. If the coil 58 is energized, for example, interruption of the magnetic return between the permanent magnet 57 and the closing element 19 is brought about, such that the closing element 19 is subsequently moved into the magnetic field of the coil 58 from retention point 60 to retention point 61, which is clear from the bottom part of FIG. 21. If corresponding pulsed energization of the coils 59 is brought about, the closing element 19 moves back from retention point 61 into the starting position, retention point 60.

As already mentioned above, the dispensing system of the above-described type is in principle suitable for use in or in conjunction with water-conveying devices of any type. As explained in the earlier exemplary embodiments, the dispensing system according to the invention is in particular suitable for use in water-conveying domestic appliances such as dishwashing and/or washing machines, but is not limited to such use.

In general, it is possible to use the dispensing system according to the invention anywhere where dispensing of at least one, preferably a plurality of preparations into a liquid medium is required in accordance with an external physical or chemical parameter triggering or controlling a dispensing program.

An adapter 77 for coupling the dispenser 2 with a water-conveying line of an appliance, such as for example a washing or dishwashing machine, is shown in FIG. 22. A water inlet 78 and a water outlet 79 are located on the adapter 77. The dispenser 2 may be coupled detachably or fixedly to the adapter 77. It is particularly advantageous to provide a trough-like receptacle in the adapter, the shape of the receptacle corresponding to the contour of the dispenser 2 and thus being capable of introduction into the receptacle. The dispenser 2 may be fixed in the receptacle in particular by latching.

In particular, the dispenser 2 may be coupled to the adapter in such a way as to prevent unintentional penetration of water or water splashes into the adapter. This may be achieved for example by means of a circumferential sealing lip 80 arranged on the inside of the adapter, which is shown by way of example in FIG. 23. The adapter 77 may comprise further means of transferring data and/or information from or to the dispensing unit 2.

Cartridge

For the purposes of the present application, a cartridge is understood to be a packaging means which is suitable for enclosing or holding together flowable or sprinklable preparations and is couplable to a dispenser for release of the preparation.

In particular, a cartridge may also comprise a plurality of chambers which may be filled with different compositions. It is also conceivable for a plurality of containers to be combined into a cartridge unit.

It is advantageous for the cartridge to comprise at least one outlet orifice which is arranged such that gravity-actuated release of preparation from the container may be brought about in the service position of the dispenser. In this way, no further conveying means are required for release of preparation from the container, whereby the structure of the dispenser may be kept simple and manufacturing costs low.

In a preferred development of the invention, at least one second chamber is provided for accommodating at least one second flowable or sprinklable preparation, the second chamber comprising at least one outlet orifice which is arranged such that gravity-actuated product release from the second chamber is brought about in the service position of the dispenser. The arrangement of a second chamber is particularly advantageous when preparations are stored in the mutually separate containers which are not conventionally stable in storage together, such as for example bleaching agents and enzymes.

It is also conceivable for more than two, in particular three to four chambers to be provided in or on a cartridge. In particular, one of the chambers may be configured to release volatile preparations such as for instance a scent into the surrounding environment.

In a further development of the invention the cartridge is of single-part construction. In this way, the cartridges may be produced inexpensively in a single production step, in particular by suitable blow molding methods. The chambers of a cartridge may in this case be separated from one another for example by webs or material bridges.

The cartridge may also be of multipart construction, being made of components which are produced by injection molding and then assembled.

In addition it is conceivable for the cartridge to be of multipart construction such that at least one chamber, preferably all the chambers, may be individually removed from or inserted into the dispenser. This makes it possible to replace an already empty chamber, if particularly heavy use is made of a preparation from one chamber, while the others, which may still be full of preparation, remain in the dispenser. In this way, the individual chambers or their preparations may be replenished in a targeted manner appropriate to the circumstances.

The chambers of a cartridge may be fixed to one another by suitable connection methods, such that a container unit is produced. The chambers may be detachably or nondetachably fixed to one another by a suitable interlocking, frictional or bonded connection. In particular, fixing may be effected by one or more of the connection types from the group of snap-in connections, hook-and-loop connections, press connections, melt connections, adhesive connections, welded connections, brazed connections, screw connections, keyed connections, clamped connections or rebound connections. In particular, fixing may also be provided by a heat-shrinkable sleeve, which is drawn in the heated state over all or parts of the cartridge and firmly envelops the chambers or the cartridge in the cooled state.

The bottom of the chambers may be inclined in the manner of a funnel towards the release orifice in order to provide advantageous residual emptying characteristics of the chambers. Moreover, the internal wall of a chamber may be constructed by suitable material selection and/or surface finish such that the preparation adheres only slightly to the internal chamber wall. The residual emptying characteristics of a chamber may also be further optimized by this measure.

The chambers of a cartridge may be of identical or different capacities. In a configuration with two chambers, the ratio of the container volumes is preferably 5:1; in a configuration with three chambers preferably 4:1:1, these configurations in particular being suitable for use in dishwashing machines.

As mentioned above, the cartridge preferably has 3 chambers. When such a cartridge is used in a dishwashing machine, it is particularly preferred for the first chamber to contain an alkaline cleaning preparation, the second chamber an enzymatic preparation and a third chamber a rinse aid, the volume ratio of the chambers amounting to approximately 4:1:1.

A dispensing chamber may be constructed in or on a chamber upstream of the outlet orifice in the direction of flow of the preparation. The dispensing chamber determines the quantity of preparation which, on release of preparation from the chamber, is to be released into the surrounding environment. This is particularly advantageous if the closing element of the dispenser, which effects release of the preparation from a chamber into the surrounding environment, may only be put in a release state and a closed state without the quantity released being monitored. The dispensing chamber then ensures that a predefined quantity of preparation is released without direct feedback of the quantity of preparation being released. The dispensing chambers may be of single-part or multipart construction.

According to another advantageous further development of the invention, one or more chambers in each case comprise(s) a liquid-tightly closable chamber orifice in addition to an outlet orifice. This chamber orifice makes it possible, for example, to replenish the preparation stored in the chamber.

The cartridge chambers may be ventilated, in particular in the top zone, by providing ventilation means to ensure pressure equalization between the interior of the cartridge chambers and the surrounding environment as the filling level declines. These ventilation means may, for example, take the form of a valve, in particular a silicone valve, microorifices in the cartridge wall or the like.

The cartridge conventionally has a capacity of <5000 ml, in particular <1000 ml, preferably <500 ml, particularly preferably <250 ml, very particularly preferably <50 ml.

The cartridge may be of any desired three-dimensional shape. It may for example be cubic, spherical or plate-like in form.

When using the dispenser in dishwashing machines, it is particularly advantageous to shape the device on the basis of the dishes to be cleaned in dishwashing machines. It may, for example, be plate-shaped, approximately assuming the dimensions of a plate. In this way, the dispenser may be positioned in space-saving manner for example in the lower basket of the dishwasher. Furthermore, the correct positioning of the dispensing unit is immediately obvious to the user thanks to the plate-like shape. The cartridge preferably has a ratio of height:width:depth of between 5:5:1 and 50:50:1, particularly preferably of around 10:10:1. Due to the “slender” construction of the dispenser and the cartridge it is in particular possible to position the device in the lower basket of a dishwashing machine in the receptacles provided for plates. This has the advantage that the preparations released from the dispenser pass directly into the washing liquor and cannot adhere to other items being washed.

Conventional commercial domestic dishwashing machines are usually designed such that larger items to be washed, such as for instance pans or large plates, are arranged in the lower basket of the dishwashing machine. In order to prevent the user from positioning the dispensing system less than ideally in the upper basket, in an advantageous development of the invention the dispensing system is dimensioned such that the dispensing system may only be positioned in the receptacles provided for this purpose in the lower basket. To this end, the width and height of the dispensing system may in particular be selected between 150 mm and 300 mm, particularly preferably between 175 mm and 250 mm.

It is, however, also conceivable to construct the dispensing unit in a cup shape with a substantially circular or square base area.

In order to provide direct visual checking of filling level, it is advantageous to form the cartridge at least in portions of a transparent material.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the cartridge comprises an RFID label which at least contains information about the contents of the cartridge and which is readable by the sensor unit.

This information may be used in order to select a dispensing program stored in the control unit. In this way it can be ensured that the ideal dispensing program is always used for a specific preparation. It may also be provided that, in the absence of an RFID label or in the case of an RFID label with an incorrect or defective ID, the dispensing device does not dispense but instead an optical or acoustic signal is produced which notifies the user of the error.

In order to prevent misuse of the cartridge, the cartridges may also comprise structural elements which interact with corresponding elements of the dispenser like a key in a lock, such that for example only cartridges of a particular type are couplable to the dispenser. This development furthermore makes it possible for information about the cartridge coupled to the dispenser to be transferred to the control unit, whereby the dispensing device may be controlled in a manner adapted to the contents of the corresponding container.

The outlet orifices of a cartridge are preferably arranged in a line, so making a slender, plate-shaped configuration of the dispenser possible.

In the case of a cup or pot shaped construction of the cartridge or a cup or pot shaped grouping thereof, it may however also be advantageous to arrange the release orifices of the cartridge for example in an arc shape.

The cartridge is in particular constructed to accommodate flowable washing or cleaning agents. Such a cartridge particularly preferably comprises a plurality of chambers for spatially separately accommodating in each case different preparations of a washing or cleaning agent. By way of non-exhaustive example, some possible combinations for filling the chambers with different preparations are listed below:

Chamber 1 Chamber 2 Chamber 3 Chamber 4 Alkaline cleaning Enzymatic Rinse aid preparation cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning Enzymatic Rinse aid Scent preparation cleaning preparation Alkaline cleaning Enzymatic Rinse aid Disinfectant preparation cleaning preparation preparation

It is particularly preferred for all preparations to be flowable, since this ensures rapid dissolution of the preparations in the washing liquor of the dishwasher, as a result of which these preparations have a rapid to immediate cleaning or rinsing action, in particular also on the walls of the washing compartment and/or of a light guide of the cartridge and/or of the dispenser.

The cartridge comprises a cartridge bottom, which in the service position is directed downwards in the direction of gravity and in the at least two chambers there is provided in each case at least one outlet orifice arranged at the cartridge bottom.

The cartridge is preferably formed of at least two elements which are bonded together, the connecting edge of the elements at the cartridge bottom extending at a distance from the outlet orifices such that the connecting edge does not intersect with the outlet orifices.

The bonded connection may be produced, for example, by adhesive bonding, welding, brazing, pressing or vulcanization.

In particular, such a further chamber for accommodating a preparation may be arranged on the cartridge and configured such that volatile substances such as for example scents are released from the preparation into the surrounding environment of the chamber.

According to one embodiment of the invention which is to be preferred, the outlet orifices are in each case provided with a closure which, when in the state coupled with a dispenser, permits outflow of preparation from the respective chambers and, when in the uncoupled state of the cartridge, substantially prevents outflow of preparation. The closure in particular takes the form of a silicone valve.

The cartridge may be constructed such that it may be arranged detachably or fixedly in or on the dishwashing machine.

Dispenser

The control unit necessary for operation and at least one actuator are integrated into the dispenser. A sensor unit and/or an energy source is preferably likewise arranged on or in the dispenser.

The dispenser preferably consists of a housing protected from water splashing, which prevents penetration of water splashes, as may for example occur during use in a dishwashing machine, into the interior of the dispenser, in which dispenser are arranged at least the control unit, sensor unit and/or actuator.

It is particularly advantageous to encapsulate in particular the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit in such a manner that the dispenser is substantially water-tight, i.e. the dispenser is functional even when completely immersed in liquid. Examples of encapsulation materials which may be used are multicomponent epoxide and acrylate encapsulation compounds such as methacrylate esters, urethane meth- and cyanoacrylates or two-component materials comprising polyurethanes, silicones, epoxy resins.

An alternative or supplement to encapsulation is enclosing the components in an appropriately designed, moisture-tight housing. Such a development is further explained in greater detail below.

It is furthermore advantageous to arrange the components or assemblies on and/or in a component carrier in the dispenser; this too is further explained elsewhere.

It is furthermore advantageous for the material from which the dispenser is shaped to prevent or at least reduce biofilm growth. This may be achieved by using appropriate surface textures of the material or additives, such as for example biocides, known from the prior art. It is also conceivable to provide some areas of the dispenser at risk of microbial growth, in particular those areas in which washing water can accumulate, with a finish which prevents or at least reduces biofilm growth. Films/foils with an appropriate action may for example be used for this purpose.

It is particularly preferred for the dispenser to comprise at least one first interface which interacts with a corresponding interface provided in or on a domestic appliance, in particular a water-conveying domestic appliance, preferably a dishwashing or washing machine, such that electrical energy and/or signals is/are transmitted from the domestic appliance to the dispenser and/or from the dispenser to the domestic appliance.

In one development of the invention, the interfaces take the form of plug-in connectors. In a further development, the interfaces may be constructed such that electrical energy and/or electrical and/or optical signals are transmitted wirelessly.

It is here particularly preferred for the interfaces provided for transmitting electrical energy to be inductive transmitters and receivers of electromagnetic waves. The interface of a water-conveying appliance, such as for instance a dishwashing machine, may accordingly in particular be configured as an AC-operated transmitter coil with an iron core and the dispenser interface may be configured as a receiver coil with an iron core.

In an alternative embodiment, the transmission of electrical energy may also be provided by means of an interface which comprises, on the domestic appliance side, an electrically operated light source and, on the dispenser side, a light sensor, for example a photodiode or a solar cell. The light emitted by the light source is converted into electricity in the light sensor, which is then in turn stored, for example, by a storage battery on the dispenser side.

In an advantageous further development of the invention, an interface is provided on the dispenser and the water-conveying appliance, such as for instance a dishwashing machine, for transferring (i.e. transmitting and receiving) electromagnetic and/or optical signals, which in particular represent operating state, measurement and/or control information of the dispenser and/or of the water-conveying equipment such as a dishwashing machine.

It is, of course, possible only to provide an interface for transmitting signals or an interface for transmitting electrical energy or in each case to provide an interface for transmitting signals and an interface for transmitting electrical energy or to provide an interface which is suitable for transmitting both electrical energy and signals.

Such an interface may in particular be constructed such that electrical energy and/or electromagnetic and/or optical signals is/are transmitted wirelessly.

It is particularly preferred for the interface to be configured for emitting and/or receiving optical signals. It is very particularly preferred for the interface to be configured for emitting or receiving light in the visible range. Since conventionally when a dishwashing machine is in operation it is dark inside the washing compartment, signals may be emitted and/or detected by the dispenser in the visible optical range, for example in the form of signal pulses or photoflashes. It has proved particularly advantageous to use wavelengths of between 600-800 nm in the visible spectrum.

Alternatively or in addition, it is advantageous for the interface to be configured for emitting or receiving infrared signals. It is particularly advantageous for the interface to be configured for emitting or receiving infrared signals in the near infrared range (780 nm-3000 nm).

In particular, the interface comprises at least one LED. Particularly preferably, the interface comprises at least two LEDs. It is also possible according to a further development of the invention which is to be preferred to provide at least two LEDs, which emit light at different wavelengths. This makes it possible, for example, to define different signal bands on which information may respectively be transmitted or received.

In addition, it is advantageous, in a further development of the invention, for at least one LED to be an RGB LED, the wavelength of which is adjustable. Thus, for example, different signal bands which emit signals on different wavelengths may be defined with one LED. It is thus for example also conceivable for light to be emitted on a different wavelength during the drying process, during which high atmospheric humidity (fog) prevails in the washing compartment, than for example during a washing stage.

The interface of the dispenser may be configured in such a way that the LED is provided both for emitting signals inside the dishwasher, in particular when the dishwashing machine door is closed, and for optical display of an operating state, in particular when the dishwashing machine door is open.

It is particularly preferable for an optical signal to be configured as a signal pulse with a pulse duration of between 1 ms and 10 seconds, preferably between 5 ms and 100 ms.

In addition, it is advantageous for the interface of the dispenser to be configured in such a way that it emits an optical signal with the dishwashing machine closed and unloaded which brings about an average illuminance E of between 0.01 and 100 lux, preferably between 0.1 and 50 lux, measured at the walls bounding the washing compartment. This illuminance is then sufficient to bring about multiple reflections with or from the other washing compartment walls and thus to reduce or prevent possible signal shadows in the washing compartment, in particular when the dishwashing machine is loaded.

The signal emitted and/or received by the interface in particular bears information, in particular being a control signal or a signal which represents an operating state of the dispenser and/or of the dishwasher.

In an advantageous further development of the invention, the dispenser for releasing at least one washing and/or cleaning agent preparation from a cartridge into the interior of a domestic appliance comprises a light source, by means of which a light signal may be incoupled into a light guide of the cartridge. The light source may in particular be an LED. This for example makes it possible to incouple light signals, for example representing the operating state of the dispenser, from the dispenser into the cartridge, such that said signals are visually perceptible on the cartridge by a user. This is in particular advantageous because, in the service position in the plate receptacle of a crockery drawer in a dishwasher, the dispenser may be visually concealed between other items to be washed. By incoupling the light from dispenser into the cartridge, the corresponding light signals may for example also be guided into the top zone of the cartridge, such that, even if the dispenser is positioned in the plate receptacle between other items to be washed, the light signals are visually perceptible by the user since, if the crockery drawer is properly loaded, the top zones of the items to be washed and of the cartridge conventionally remain uncovered.

It is furthermore possible for the light signal incoupled into and passing through the light guide of the cartridge to be detectable by a sensor located on the dispenser. This is explained in greater detail in the following section.

In a further, advantageous development, the dispenser for releasing at least one washing and/or cleaning agent preparation into the interior of a domestic appliance comprises at least one optical transmit unit, the optical transmit unit being configured such that signals from the transmit unit may be incoupled into a cartridge couplable with the dispenser and signals from the transmit unit may be emitted into the surrounding environment of the dispenser. In this way, it is possible by means of an optical transmit unit to achieve not only signal transmission between the dispenser and for example a domestic appliance such as a dishwashing machine but also signal input into a cartridge.

In particular, the optical transmit unit may be an LED which preferably emits light in the visible and/or IR range. It is also conceivable to use another suitable optical transmit unit, such as for example a laser diode. It is particularly to be preferred to use optical transmit units, which emit light in the wavelength range between 600-800 nm.

In an advantageous further development of the invention the dispenser may comprise at least one optical receive unit. This for example makes it possible for the dispenser to receive signals from an optical transmit unit arranged in the domestic appliance. This may be achieved by any suitable optical receive unit, such as for example photocells, photomultipliers, semiconductor detectors, photodiodes, photoresistors, solar cells, phototransistors, CCD and/or CMOS image sensors. It is particularly preferred for the optical receive unit to be suitable for receiving light in the wavelength range from 600-800 nm.

In particular, the optical receive unit on the dispenser may also be constructed such that the signals from the transmit unit incouplable into a cartridge coupled with the dispenser are outcouplable from the cartridge and are detectable by the optical receive unit of the dispenser.

The signals emitted by the transmit unit into the surrounding environment of the dispenser may preferably represent information with regard to operating states or control commands.

Component Carrier

The dispenser comprises a component carrier on which are arranged at least the actuator and the closing element and the energy source and/or the control unit and/or the sensor unit and/or the dispensing chamber.

The component carrier comprises receptacles for the stated components and/or the components are shaped in a single part with the component carrier.

The receptacles for the components in the component carrier may be provided for a frictional, interlocking and/or bonded connection between a corresponding component and the corresponding receptacle.

For the purposes of simple demounting of the components from the component carrier, it is furthermore conceivable for the dispensing chamber, the actuator, the closing element, the energy source, the control unit and/or the sensor unit in each case to be detachably arranged on the component carrier.

It is also advantageous for the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit to be arranged as a combined assembly on or in the component carrier. In an advantageous further development of the invention, the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit are combined as an assembly. This may for example be achieved by arranging the energy source, the control unit and the sensor unit on a common electrical printed circuit board.

According to a further preferred development of the invention, the component carrier is of a trough-like design and manufactured as an injection molded part. It is particularly preferable for the dispensing chamber to be of single-part construction with the component carrier.

The component carrier ensures maximally straightforward automatic population of the dispenser with the necessary components. The component carrier may in this way be preassembled preferably automatically in its entirety and assembled to form a dispenser.

According to one embodiment of the invention, once populated, the trough-like component carrier may be closed in liquid-tight manner with a, for example, lid-like closing element. The closing element may for example take the form of a film/foil which is bonded in liquid-tight manner with the component carrier and, with the trough-like component carrier, forms one or more liquid-tight chambers.

The closing element may also be a bracket, into which the component carrier may be introduced, in which, when in the assembled state, the bracket and the component carrier form the dispenser. When in the assembled state, the component carrier and the bracket interact such that a liquid-tight connection is formed between the component carrier and the bracket, such that no washing water can get into the interior of the dispenser or of the component carrier.

In the service position of the dispenser, it is furthermore preferred for the receptacle for the actuator on the component carrier to be arranged above the dispensing chamber in the direction of gravity, whereby a compact structure of the dispenser may be achieved. The compact design may be further optimized by arranging the dispensing chamber inlet on the component carrier above the receptacle of the actuator in the service position of the dispenser. It is also to be preferred for the components on the component carrier to be arranged substantially in a row relative to one another, in particular along the longitudinal axis of the component carrier.

In a further development of the invention, the receptacle for the actuator comprises an orifice which is in line with the dispensing chamber outlet, such that a closing element may be moved to and fro by the actuator through the orifice and the dispensing chamber outlet.

It is particularly preferred for the component carrier to be formed of a transparent material.

The component carrier advantageously comprises at least one light guide, through which light from the surrounding environment of the dispenser may be guided into and/or out of the interior(s) of the dispenser or of the component carrier to an optical transmit and/or receive unit, the light guide in particular being shaped in a single-part with the transparent component carrier.

It is accordingly furthermore preferred for at least one orifice to be provided in the dispenser, through which the light from the surrounding environment of the dispenser may be incoupled and/or outcoupled into and/or out of the light guide.

Actuator

For the purposes of the present application, an actuator is a device which converts an input variable into an output variable of a different kind and with which an object is moved or movement thereof is brought about, the actuator being coupled with at least one closing element such that release of preparation from at least one cartridge chamber may be indirectly or directly effected.

The actuator may be driven by means of drives selected from the group of gravity drives, ion drives, electric drives, motor drives, hydraulic drives, pneumatic drives, gear drives, worm gear drives, ball-screw drives, linear drives, roller-screw drives, toothed worm drives, piezoelectric drives, chain drives, and/or reaction drives.

In particular, the actuator may be constructed from an electric motor which is coupled with a gear train which converts the rotational motion of the motor into a linear motion of a carriage coupled to the gear train. This is in particular advantageous in a slender, plate-shaped configuration of the dispensing unit.

At least one magnet element may be arranged on the actuator, which magnet element, together with a magnet element of identical polarity on a dispenser, effects product release from the container as soon as the two magnet elements are positioned relative to one another such that magnetic repulsion is brought about by the magnetic elements of identical polarity and a contactless release mechanism is created.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the actuator is a bistable solenoid which, together with a closing element taking the form of a plunger core engaging in the bistable solenoid, forms a pulse-controlled bistable valve. Bistable solenoids are electromechanical magnets with a linear direction of motion, the plunger core coming to an unenergized rest in each end position.

Bistable solenoid or valves are known from the prior art. In order to change between valve positions (open/closed), a bistable valve requires a pulse and then remains in this position until a counter-pulse is transmitted to the valve. Such a valve is accordingly also known as a pulse-controlled valve. One substantial advantage of such pulse-controlled valves is that they do not consume any energy in order to remain at the valve end positions, the closure position and the release position, but instead merely require an energy pulse to change valve position and the valve end positions should thus be considered stable. A bistable valve remains in whatever switching position for which it most recently received a control signal.

The closing element (plunger core) is driven to one end position for each pulse of electricity. If the power is switched off, the closing element retains its position. The closing element (plunger core) is driven to the other end position for each pulse of electricity. If the power is switched off, the closing element retains its position.

Bistable characteristics of solenoids may be achieved in various ways. On the one hand, it is known to divide the coil. The coil is divided more or less centrally, so creating a gap. A permanent magnet is inserted into this gap. The plunger core itself has material removed from it by lathe from both front and rear such that, in each end position, it has a planar face relative to the magnet frame. The magnetic field of the permanent magnet flows through this face. The plunger core sticks here. Alternatively, it is also possible to use two separate coils. The principle is similar to the bistable solenoid with a divided coil. The difference is that there actually are two different electrical coils. These are separately driven depending on the direction in which the plunger core is to be moved.

Closing Element

A closing element for the purposes of the present application is a component on which the actuator acts and which, as a consequence of said action, brings about opening or closing of an outlet orifice.

The closing element may, for example, comprise valves which may be adjusted by the actuator into a product release position or a closure position.

It is particularly preferred for the closing element and the actuator to assume the form of a solenoid valve, in which the dispenser is embodied by the valve and the actuator by the electromagnetic or piezoelectric drive of the solenoid valve. In particular when a plurality of containers and thus of preparations to be dispensed are used, the use of solenoid valves permits very precise control of the quantity and timing of dispensing.

It is therefore advantageous to control the release of preparations from each outlet orifice of a chamber with a solenoid valve such that the solenoid valve indirectly or directly determines the release of preparation from the product release orifice.

Sensor

For the purposes of the present application, a sensor is a measured variable pickup or detecting element, which may qualitatively or quantitatively detect specific physical or chemical properties and/or the material nature of its surrounding environment as a measured variable.

The dispensing unit preferably comprises at least one sensor, which is suitable for detecting a temperature. The temperature sensor is designed in particular to detect a water temperature.

It is additionally preferred for the dispensing unit to comprise a sensor for detecting conductivity, whereby in particular the presence of water or the spraying of water, in particular in a dishwashing machine, is detected.

In a further development of the invention the dispensing unit comprises a sensor, which may determine physical, chemical and/or mechanical parameters from the surrounding environment of the dispensing unit. The sensor unit may comprise one or more active and/or passive sensors for the qualitative and/or quantitative detection of mechanical, electrical, physical and/or chemical variables which are forwarded to the control unit as control signals.

In particular, the sensors of the sensor unit may be selected from the group of timers, temperature sensors, infrared sensors, brightness sensors, temperature sensors, motion sensors, strain sensors, rotational speed sensors, proximity sensors, flow sensors, color sensors, gas sensors, vibration sensors, pressure sensors, conductivity sensors, turbidity sensors, instantaneous acoustic pressure sensors, “lab-on-a-chip” sensors, force sensors, acceleration sensors, inclination sensors, pH sensors, moisture sensors, magnetic field sensors, RFID sensors, magnetic field sensors, Hall sensors, biochips, odor sensors, hydrogen sulfide sensors and/or MEMS sensors.

In particular in the case of preparations whose viscosity is subject to severe temperature-dependent fluctuation, it is advantageous to provide flow sensors in the dispensing device for monitoring the volume or mass of the dispensed preparations. Suitable flow sensors may be selected from the group of diaphragm flow sensors, magnetic-inductive flow meters, mass flow metering using the Coriolis method, eddy flow metering, ultrasound flow metering, rotameter metering, annular piston flow metering, thermal mass flow metering or differential pressure flow metering.

It is particularly preferable for at least two sensor units to be provided for measuring different parameters, one sensor unit very particularly preferably being a conductivity sensor and a further sensor unit very particularly preferably being a temperature sensor. It is additionally preferable for at least one sensor unit to be a brightness sensor.

The sensors are in particular adjusted for detecting the start, progress and end of a washing program. By way of non-exhaustive examples, the sensor combinations listed in the following table may be used for this purpose:

Sensor 1 Sensor 2 Sensor 3 Sensor 4 Conductivity Temperature sensor sensor Conductivity Temperature Brightness sensor sensor sensor Conductivity Temperature Brightness Turbidity sensor sensor sensor sensor Acoustic sensor Temperature sensor

Using the conductivity sensor, it is possible, for example, to detect whether the conductivity sensor has been wetted with water, such that it may for example thereby be established whether there is water in the dishwashing machine.

Washing programs as a rule exhibit a characteristic temperature profile, which is determined inter alia by the heating of the washing water and drying of the items being washed, and which may be detected using a temperature sensor.

A brightness sensor may be used, for example, to detect the incidence of light into the interior of a dishwasher when the dishwashing machine door is opened, from which it may for example be concluded that the washing program has come to an end.

A turbidity sensor may also be provided to determine the degree of soiling of the items to be washed in the dishwasher. This for example also allows selection of a dispenser dispensing program which is appropriate for the identified soiling situation.

It is also feasible to detect the progress of a washing program with the assistance of at least one acoustic sensor, specific sound and/or vibration emissions being detected, for example when water is pumped in or out.

It goes without saying that it is possible for a person skilled in the art to use any desired, suitable combinations of a number of sensors to achieve washing program monitoring.

The data line between sensor and control unit may take the form of an electrically conductive cable or may assume a cable-less form. In principle it is also conceivable for at least one sensor to be positioned or positionable outside the dispenser in the interior of a dishwashing machine and for a data line, in particular a cable-less data line, to be provided for transmitting measured data from the sensor to the dispenser.

A cable-less data line is achieved in particular by the transmission of electromagnetic waves or light. It is preferable for a cable-less data line to be configured to standards such as for example Bluetooth, IrDA, IEEE 802, GSM, UMTS etc.

To allow efficient production and assembly of the dispenser, it is also possible, however, for at least one sensor unit to be arranged on or in the control unit. For example, it is possible to provide a temperature sensor in the dispenser or directly on the board bearing the control unit, such that the temperature sensor does not have any direct contact with the surrounding environment.

In a particularly preferred development of the invention the sensor unit is arranged at the bottom of the dispenser, the bottom of the dispenser in the service position being directed downwards in the direction of gravity. It is particularly preferable here for the sensor unit to comprise a temperature and/or a conductivity sensor. Such a configuration ensures that, through the spray arms of the dishwasher, water reaches the underside of the dispenser and thus comes into contact with the sensor. Because the arrangement of the sensor on the bottom ensures that the distance between the spray arms and the sensor is as small as possible, between discharge at the spray arms and contact with the sensor the water undergoes only slight cooling, such that the temperature may be measured as accurately as possible.

Control Unit

A control unit for the purposes of the present application is a device which is suitable for influencing the transport of material, energy and/or information. To this end, the control unit acts on actuators with the assistance of information, in particular sensor unit measurement signals, which it processes for the purposes of the control objective.

The control unit may in particular comprise a programmable microprocessor. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of dispensing programs are stored in the microprocessor which may be selected and executed depending on the container coupled to the dispenser.

In a preferred embodiment, the control unit is not connected to any controller which may be present in the domestic appliance. Accordingly, no information, in particular electrical or electromagnetic signals, is exchanged directly between the control unit and the controller of the domestic appliance.

In an alternative development of the invention the control unit is coupled to the existing controller of the domestic appliance. This coupling is preferably cable-less. It is possible, for example, to position a transmitter on or in a dishwashing machine, preferably on or at the dispensing chamber set into the door of the dishwashing machine, which transmits a signal wirelessly to the dispensing unit if the controller of the domestic appliance brings about dispensing for example of a cleaning agent from the dispensing chamber or of rinse aid.

A plurality of programs for the release of different preparations or for the release of products in different instances of use may be stored in the control unit.

In a preferred development of the invention, the appropriate program is called by corresponding RFID labels or geometric information media formed on the container. It is thus for example possible to use the same control unit for a plurality of applications, for example for dispensing cleaning agents in dishwashing machines, for releasing perfumes for room fragrancing, for applying cleaning substances to a toilet bowl etc.

In order to dispense preparations which in particular have a tendency towards gelation, the control unit may be configured in such a way that on the one hand dispensing takes place in a sufficiently short time to ensure a good cleaning result and on the other hand the preparation is not dispensed so quickly that the spurt of preparation gels. This may be effected for example by release at intervals, the individual dispensing intervals being adjusted in such a way that the correspondingly dispensed quantities dissolve completely during a cleaning cycle.

Release of preparations from the dispenser may proceed in sequence or at the same time.

It is particularly preferable for the dispensing intervals for releasing a preparation to be between 30-90 sec, particularly preferably 45-75 sec.

It is particularly preferable to dispense a plurality of preparations in sequence in a washing program. The following dispensing sequences are particularly preferable:

1st dispensing 2nd dispensing 3rd dispensing 4th dispensing Enzymatic Alkaline cleaning cleaning preparation preparation Alkaline Rinse aid cleaning preparation Enzymatic Alkaline Rinse aid cleaning cleaning preparation preparation Enzymatic Alkaline Rinse aid Disinfectant cleaning cleaning preparation preparation preparation Enzymatic Alkaline Rinse aid Scent cleaning cleaning preparation preparation Pretreatment Enzymatic Alkaline Rinse aid preparation cleaning cleaning preparation preparation

According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the dishwashing machine and the dispenser interact in such a way that 1 mg to 1 g of surfactant are released in the rinse program of the dishwashing machine per m² of washing compartment wall area. In this way it is ensured that the walls of the washing compartment retain their degree of gloss even after a large number of washing cycles and the dispensing system retains its optical transmission capacity.

It is additionally advantageous for the dishwashing machine and the dispenser to interact in such a way that in the prewash and/or main wash program of the dishwashing machine at least one enzyme-containing preparation and/or alkaline preparation is released, the enzyme-containing preparation preferably being released before the alkaline preparation.

In a further, advantageous development of the invention, the dishwashing machine and dispenser interact in such a way that 0.1 mg-250 mg of enzyme protein are released in the prewash and/or main wash program of the dishwashing machine per m² of washing compartment wall area, whereby the degree of gloss of the washing compartment walls is further improved or is maintained even after a plurality of washing cycles.

In an advantageous further development of the invention, data such as for example control and/or dispensing programs of the control unit or operating parameters or protocols stored by the control unit may be read out of the control unit or loaded into the control unit. This may be performed for example by means of an optical interface, the optical interface being connected appropriately to the control unit. The data to be transmitted are then encoded as light signals, in particular in the visible range, the wavelength range between 600-800 nm being preferred, and emitted or received. It is also possible, however, to use a sensor present in the dispenser for transmitting data from and/or to the control unit. For example, the contacts of a conductivity sensor, which are connected to the control unit and which provides conductivity determination by means of resistance measurement at the contacts of the conductivity sensor, are used for data transmission.

Energy Source

For the purposes of the present application, an energy source is taken to mean a component of the dispensing device which is capable of providing energy which is suitable for operation of the dispensing system or of the dispenser. The energy source is preferably configured such that the dispensing system is autonomous.

The energy source preferably provides electrical energy. The energy source may for example comprise a battery, a storage battery, a mains energy supply, solar cells or the like.

It is particularly advantageous to make the energy source interchangeable, for example in the form of a replaceable battery.

A battery may for example be selected from the group of alkali-manganese batteries, zinc-carbon batteries, nickel-oxyhydroxide batteries, lithium batteries, lithium-iron sulfide batteries, zinc-air batteries, zinc chloride batteries, mercury oxide-zinc batteries and/or silver oxide-zinc batteries.

Examples of suitable storage batteries are lead storage batteries (lead dioxide/lead), nickel-cadmium storage batteries, nickel-metal hydride storage batteries, lithium-ion storage batteries, lithium-polymer storage batteries, alkali-manganese storage batteries, silver-zinc storage batteries, nickel-hydrogen storage batteries, zinc-bromine storage batteries, sodium-nickel chloride storage batteries and/or nickel-iron storage batteries.

The storage battery may in particular be configured in such a way that it is rechargeable by induction.

It is however also conceivable to provide mechanical energy sources consisting of one or more helical springs, torsion springs or torsion bars, bending springs, air/gas springs and/or elastomer springs.

The energy source is dimensioned in such a manner that the dispenser may run through approximately 300 dispensing cycles before the energy source is exhausted. It is particularly preferable for the energy source to run through between 1 and 300 dispensing cycles, very particularly preferably between 10 and 300, more preferably between 100 and 300, before the energy source is exhausted.

In addition, means may be provided on the dispensing unit for energy conversion, which generate a voltage by means of which the storage battery is charged. These means may for example take the form of a dynamo, which is driven by the water currents during a washing cycle in a dishwashing machine and outputs the voltage generated in this way to the storage battery.

Vibratory Atomizer

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention the dispensing system comprises at least one vibratory atomizer, by means of which it is possible to convert a preparation into the gas phase or keep it in the gas phase. It is thus conceivable, for example, to use the vibratory atomizer to vaporize, nebulize and/or atomize preparations, whereby the preparation is converted into the gas phase or forms an aerosol in the gas phase, the gas phase conventionally being air.

This embodiment is particularly advantageous when using a dishwashing or washing machine in which corresponding release of preparation into the gas phase takes place in a closable washing compartment. The preparation introduced into the gas phase may be distributed uniformly about the washing compartment and be deposited on the items to be washed located in the dishwashing machine.

The preparation released by the vibratory atomizer may be selected from the group of surfactant-containing preparations, enzyme-containing preparations, odor-neutralizing preparations, biocidal preparations and antibacterial preparations.

By applying the cleaning preparations onto the items being washed from the gas phase, a uniform layer of the corresponding cleaning preparation is applied onto the surface of the items being washed. It is particularly preferable for the entire surface of the items being washed to be wetted by the cleaning preparation.

In this way, a plurality of advantageous effects may be achieved before the start of a water-releasing cleaning program in the dishwashing machine. On the one hand, a suitable cleaning preparation may prevent malodors from arising as a result of biological decomposition processes taking place in food residues sticking to the items being washed. On the other hand, an appropriate cleaning preparation may “soften” any food residues which may be stuck to the items being washed, such that these may be easily and completely detached during the dishwasher cleaning program, in particular in the case of low temperature programs.

It is additionally possible to apply a preparation onto the items being washed by means of the vibratory atomizer after completion of a dishwashing machine cleaning program. In this case the preparation may for example be a preparation with antibacterial action or a preparation for modifying surfaces.

Adapter

An adapter allows simple coupling of the dispensing system to a water-conveying domestic appliance. The adapter serves to connect the dispensing system mechanically and/or electrically to the water-conveying domestic appliance.

The adapter is connected, preferably firmly, to a water-conveying line of the domestic appliance. However it is also conceivable to provide the adapter for positioning in or on the domestic appliance in a position in which the adapter falls within the path of the water flow and/or spray jet of the domestic appliance.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the adapter is configured in such a way that the release of preparation from the dispenser, when coupled to the adapter, does not proceed directly into the washing liquor, but rather into the water conveyed into the adapter by the water-conveying line, in which the water consequently bearing preparation is then conveyed out of the adapter into the interior of the dishwashing machine.

Preferably, the adapter is configured in such a way that, when not coupled to the dispenser, escape of water from the adapter is prevented. This may for example be prevented in that the water-conveying line, with which the adapter is in fluid connection, does not convey any water into or to the adapter or indeed water from the water-conveying line passes through the adapter, but the adapter comprises sealing means which prevent the outlet of water from the adapter, for example slit silicone elements, which close the adapter in a substantially liquid-tight manner when the dispenser is removed from the adapter.

The adapter makes it possible to construct a dispensing system both for an autonomous and a “built-in” version, the per se autonomous dispenser being coupled to the adapter. It is also possible to configure the adapter as a type of charging station for the dispensing system, in which for example the energy source of the dispenser is charged or data are exchanged between the dispenser and the adapter or the dishwasher.

The adapter may be arranged in a dishwashing machine on one of the interior walls of the washing chamber, in particular on the inside of the dishwashing machine door. However, it is also conceivable for the adapter as such to be positioned in the water-conveying domestic appliance where it is not accessible to the user, such that the dispenser is inserted into the adapter for example during assembly of the domestic appliance, in which the adapter, the dispenser and the domestic appliance are configured in such a way that a cartridge may be coupled to the dispenser by the user. 

1. An adapter for coupling a dispensing system with a water-conveying line of a dishwashing machine, comprising: A. a water inlet and a water outlet that are in each case couplable with a water-conveying line of the dishwashing machine, such that water may flow through the adapter, and B. a means for fixing a dispenser on or in the adapter wherein the dispenser comprises:
 1. a control unit,
 2. a sensor unit,
 3. at least one actuator that is connected with an energy source and the control unit in such a manner that a control signal from the control unit brings about movement of the actuator, whereby product release is brought about or shut off, wherein, in the coupled state, said means provides a liquid-tight connection between the adapter and the dispenser.
 2. The adapter according to claim 1, wherein the adapter is configured such that, in the uncoupled state with the dispenser, escape of water flowing through the adapter from the adapter into the surrounding environment is prevented.
 3. The adapter according to claim 1, wherein the dispenser comprises at least one interface that cooperates with a corresponding interface formed in or on the adapter in such a manner that electrical energy is transferred from the adapter to the dispenser.
 4. The adapter according to claim 3, wherein an interface is constructed on the dispenser and adapter for transfer of electromagnetic signals that represent operating state, measurement and/or control information of the dispenser and/or the dishwashing machine.
 5. The adapter according to claim 4, wherein the interface is constructed as an optical interface in the wavelength range of 600-800 nm.
 6. The adapter according to claim 5, wherein the interface comprises an LED as the transmit unit and a photodiode as the receive unit.
 7. The adapter according to claim 1, wherein the dispenser is detachably fixed in or on the adapter.
 8. The adapter according to claim 1, wherein the dispenser is nondetachably fixed in or on the adapter.
 9. The dispensing system according to claim 1 wherein the cartridge is mobile.
 10. A dispensing system, in particular for a user to position in the interior of a dishwashing machine, comprising: A. at least one cartridge for flowable washing or cleaning agents with a plurality of chambers for spatially separate accommodation of in each case different preparations of a washing or cleaning agent; and B. a dispenser couplable with the cartridge, comprising:
 1. at least one energy source;
 2. a control unit;
 3. a sensor unit;
 4. at least one actuator, that is connected with the energy source and the control unit in such a manner that a control signal from the control unit brings about movement of the actuator;
 5. a closing element, that is coupled with the actuator such that movement of the actuator displaces the closing element into a closure or a release position;
 6. at least one dispensing chamber that, when cartridge and dispenser are assembled, is connected in communicating manner with at least one of the cartridge chambers; a. the dispensing chamber comprising an inlet for inflow of washing or cleaning agent from a cartridge chamber and an outlet for outflow of washing or cleaning agent from the dispensing chamber into the surrounding environment; b. at least the outlet of the dispensing chamber being closable or openable by the closing element; c. an adapter for coupling the dispenser with a water-conveying line of a dishwashing machine comprising: a water inlet and a water outlet that are in each case couplable with a water-conveying line of the dishwashing machine, such that water may flow through the adapter wherein said adapter further comprises a means for fixing the dispenser on or in the adapter in the coupled state, said means provides a liquid-tight connection between the adapter and the dispenser. 